The Canadian Food and Drug Administration has set up control zones to try to curb the spread of the H5N1 strain. They have been set up around contaminated areas, within a 10-kilometer radius, to restrict the movement of poultry, eggs and poultry products. Dr. Shayan Sharif, an immunologist at Ontario College of Veterinary Medicine, calls the H5N1 strain highly contagious. “If the virus enters, it is not going to disappear and taking care not to enter new facilities,” he told CTV News. “These zones have proven to be quite effective.” The case, which was uncovered on Monday, came from a duck herd in downtown Wellington. Another control zone was put in place in March after bird flu was detected on a turkey farm near Guelph. “If it undergoes several rounds of mutation it could acquire the ability to be transmitted to humans, but not at this point,” said Dr Sharif. Although the threat to humans does not compare to the level of extinction of entire farms full of birds, backyard swarms are also at risk. “[I] “I did not expect it to hit us in a very isolated rural area that is not close to commercial herds,” said Adrien Brennan. Birds in one of its coops, on the North Bruce Peninsula, were killed this week. The CFIA has imposed control measures in the surrounding area. They have also provided recommendations for enhanced biosecurity. “Once we took the initiative to contact all of our neighbors, anyone in the community we know has birds in the yard,” Brennan said. “Just to let you know, this could be an outburst and we contacted the CFIA.” As Ontario is one of the largest producers of turkey and chicken in Canada, the question remains whether the measures are sufficient to avert a widespread catastrophe. “Time will tell, but some of the indications are that the virus has spread to wild birds and that worries me,” Dr Sharif said.
FACT SHEET PROTECTION
Diseases such as bird flu (or bird flu) can cause serious illness or death in many species. The Government of Canada has developed recommendations for the prevention and detection of diseases in backyard herds and poultry. Avoid contact with wild birds and other animals. Many animals can carry viruses, parasites and bacteria. Your pet’s food and water should be kept away from wildlife to prevent contamination. They keep their environment clean. Viruses, parasites and bacteria can live in organic matter such as waste and soil. They recommend cleaning barns, gardening tools, as well as water and feed containers, not sharing equipment with other bird owners, and washing your hands after handling birds. Check for symptoms. Signs could include:
Lack of energy, movement or appetite Reduced egg production Swelling around the head, neck and eyes Cough, wheezing or sneezing Nervousness, tremor or lack of coordination Diarrhea Sudden death
Call your veterinarian if you suspect your pet is sick with bird flu. Owners are also legally responsible for informing the authorities.
Limit contact with other people Humans can also transmit bird diseases. They can pass through hands, clothes, boots and tire and wheel wells. Keep young birds separate from your flock They recommend isolating young birds for at least 30 days before inserting them into an existing flock. The full list can be found here.
